TUSTIN, Calif. -- Construction is complete in Southern California on a massive blimp-like airship that the military hopes to use to carry cargo around the globe. The Los Angeles Times reports that a first flight for the 36,000-pound aluminum and carbon fiber Aeroscraft could come in the next few months. It was built by Montebello-based aircraft maker Worldwide Aeros, under a $35 million contract from the Pentagon and NASA. Construction took place inside a 17-story wooden blimp hangar at the former military base in Tustin.The newspaper said the Aeroscraft is a new type of hybrid aircraft that combines airplane and airship technologies. The 230-foot airship has piston engines that allow it to move vertically and a new type of buoyancy control system.The company said it will ultimately carry up to 66 tons.

Related

Share your comments: Log in using your HeraldNet account or your Facebook, Twitter or Disqus profile. Comments that violate the rules are subject to removal. Please see our terms of use. Please note that you must verify your email address for your comments to appear.